Living in polluted areas increases the risk of brittle bones and devastating fractures in the elderly, a major new study suggests.

Researchers at Columbia University in New York studied the records of more than nine million people and found that even slight rises in airborne particles from vehicle emissions was linked to lower bone density.

They believe that pollution affects the production of key hormones and bone minerals, leading to osteoporosis.

Among the many benefits of clean air, our research suggests, are improved bone health and a way to prevent bone fracturesDr Andrea Baccarelli

The debilitating disease is suffered by approximately three million people in the UK, disproportionately women, and becomes more likely with age.

In some cases, patients suffer fractures simply from being given a hug.

Last month the Duchess of Cornwall, whose mother and grandmother both died after spending “agonising” years living with the condition, urged young people to build up bone strength through good diet and exercise before they reach 30.

But the new study, published in the Lancet, found that pollution undermined bone strength regardless of lifestyle.

The Duchess of Cornwall, then Camilla Shand, left, with her mother the Hon Mrs Shand, who died from osteoporosisCredit:
Desmond O'Neill

Dr Andrea Baccarelli, who took part in the study, said: "Decades of careful research has documented the health risks of air pollution, from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, to cancer, and impaired cognition, and now osteoporosis."

"Among the many benefits of clean air, our research suggests, are improved bone health and a way to prevent bone fractures."

In research published earlier this year, Dr Baccarelli reported that Vitamin B can diminish the effects of air pollution-induced cardiovascular disease, as well as epigenetic damage to DNA.

It is unclear, however, if the benefits of Vitamin B extend to bone loss.

The National Osteoporosis Society advises eating most dairy products, green leafy vegetables, broccoli and baked beans to gain healthy amounts of calcium and vitamin D, which is known to help strengthen bones.

Weight-bearing exercise is also essential, however the greatest value is gained before the age of 30.